Saline Soil

1) A soil that contains too much soluble salt to prevent plant growth, but is not sodic.

2) A non-alkaline soil containing soluble salt in such quantities as to prevent most crop plants from growing; the conductivity of the saturation extract is greater than 4 millimos per 25 cm at C0.

Saline soil refers to soil that contains a high concentration of soluble salts, which can negatively affect plant growth and soil health. This type of soil typically has a high electrical conductivity (EC) due to the dissolved salts, making it challenging for plants to absorb water and nutrients.

Characteristics of Saline Soil:

1. High Salt Content:
   • Often measured using Electrical Conductivity (EC).
   • Saline soils typically have an EC of >4 dS/m (decisiemens per meter).
2. White Crust on Surface:Salt deposits can appear as a white layer on the soil surface, especially in dry conditions.
3. Reduced Plant Growth:High salinity leads to osmotic stress, making it hard for plants to take up water.
4. Alkalinity:Unlike sodic soils, saline soils do not necessarily have high pH; their pH is usually below 8.5.

Causes of Saline Soils:

1. Natural Processes:
   • High evaporation rates in arid or semi-arid regions.
   • Poor drainage or proximity to salt-rich groundwater.
2. Human Activities:
   • Over-irrigation without proper drainage.
   • Use of saline water for irrigation.
   • Deforestation and land mismanagement.

Impacts of Saline Soils:

• Reduced Agricultural Productivity: Crops may fail to germinate or grow due to salt toxicity.
• Soil Erosion: Vegetation loss caused by high salinity can lead to erosion.
• Groundwater Salinization: Salt leaching into aquifers can degrade water quality.

Management of Saline Soils:

1. Leaching: Use fresh water to flush salts below the root zone.
2. Improved Drainage: Prevent waterlogging and salt buildup.
3. Crop Selection: Plant salt-tolerant crops like barley, sorghum, or certain grasses.
4. Organic Matter Addition: Increase soil structure and water retention.
5. Gypsum Application: Helps displace sodium and improve soil permeability.